Comparison of GHG emissions by sector: Which sectors pollute the most?

Why compare GHG emissions by sector?

Comparing GHG emissions by sector helps identify the main sources of emissions and allows for targeted actions to reduce them. Each sector contributes differently to global warming, which justifies an adapted approach to achieving global climate goals, such as those set by the Paris Agreement. This sectoral analysis allows for the distribution of emission reduction efforts according to the impact of each sector, ensuring a more effective decarbonization process.

Energy sector: The main contributor to GHG emissions

The energy sector is responsible for about 73% of global greenhouse gas emissions due to the combustion of fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas. These fossil fuels generate large amounts of CO2 during electricity and heat production, significantly contributing to global warming.

To reduce these emissions, numerous initiatives are being developed, such as the expansion of renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydro. These low-carbon energy sources play a key role in the energy transition.

Although significant progress has been made in some countries to increase the share of renewables in the energy mix, challenges remain to accelerate this transition on a global scale.

Transportation: 16% of global emissions

The transportation sector accounts for 16% of global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily due to the use of fossil fuels in road, air, and maritime transport. The reliance on internal combustion engine vehicles is a major contributor to these emissions.

Several innovations can help reduce this impact. The electrification of vehicles is developing rapidly, public transport systems are being modernized, and the transition to biofuels and hydrogen offers more sustainable alternatives.

Cities like Oslo and Amsterdam are leading the way in decarbonizing transportation by promoting electric vehicles and investing in green infrastructure. These initiatives show that viable solutions exist to reduce emissions in this key sector.

Industry: About 21% of global emissions

The industrial sector is responsible for about 21% of global greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions mainly come from the production of goods such as steel, cement, and chemicals, which require large amounts of fossil fuel energy.

To reduce the industry’s carbon footprint, several initiatives have emerged, such as improving energy efficiency, using sustainable materials, and developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. These efforts help limit emissions, particularly in heavy industry.

Agriculture: About 14% of global emissions

Agriculture is responsible for about 14% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The main sources of emissions are methane (CH4) produced by ruminants during digestion and nitrous oxide (N2O) released from the intensive use of chemical fertilizers.

Intensive livestock farming and monoculture increase these emissions, while also degrading soils and the environment. Several strategies can address this, such as sustainable farming practices, reducing chemical inputs, and promoting agroforestry.

Adopting a more plant-based diet also contributes to reducing the carbon footprint associated with livestock farming. In France, the International Strategy for Food Security, Nutrition, and Sustainable Agriculture (2019-2024) promotes practices like agroecology to tackle the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss. Brazil, for its part, has implemented initiatives to reduce agricultural emissions through low-carbon practices, notably in the Cerrado, where more than 93,000 hectares of land have been restored.

Building and residential: About 6% of global emissions

The building and residential sector accounts for about 6% of global greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions primarily come from energy consumption for heating, cooling, and electricity. Direct emissions stem from the combustion of fossil fuels (gas, oil) for heating, while indirect emissions are related to electricity production from non-renewable sources.

To reduce these emissions, solutions such as low-energy buildings (BBC) and energy-efficient renovations are becoming more widespread. Increasing the use of renewable energy (solar, geothermal) in buildings also helps reduce the carbon footprint.

France and Germany are investing in thermal renovation programs to improve the energy efficiency of older buildings while promoting the construction of eco-friendly buildings.